THESE ARE GOVERNMENT CONCESSIONS!!

I forgot to add to yesterday's circular two more important concessions made by the Government in the form of amendments to the Bill. These are very clearly a response to lobbying pressure.

The first removed the paragraph in Schedule 1 that catches private events raising money for charity (para 1(7) in the Bill as amended on Report). Such events are now out of the licensing regime altogether. The second inserts a new paragraph which exempts the provision of any regulated entertainment or facilities at garden fetes, functions or events 'of a similar character' (provided these are not for 'private gain'). The term 'private gain' is further defined as 'to be construed in accordance with section 22 of the Lotteries and Amusements Act 1976 (c. 32)'.

I think IF we win we all owe Hamish of Musicians Union and Richard Bridge, Lawyer, a few pints!